Batona Trail

Batona Trail is a long-distance hiking route that runs through dense pine forests across three state forests in New Jersey's Pine Barrens. The path covers sandy soil with varying plant life and connects different areas of the woodland.

The original 30-mile section was built by the Batona Hiking Club in 1961, connecting Carpenter Spring in Lebanon State Forest to Batsto Village. Since then it has become a main way for people to reach the deeper woodland areas of the region.

The trail passes by the Carranza Memorial, where yearly ceremonies honor a Mexican aviator who crashed here in 1928 during a goodwill flight. Visitors can witness how this historical event continues to hold meaning for the local community.

Four marked campgrounds along the route let hikers break the journey into segments of one to five days based on their pace. Visitors should be ready for some stretches between camps that can feel longer than expected.

Apple Pie Hill marks the highest point along the trail and offers views across the eastern metropolitan region. On clear days, hikers can see from this overlook across many of the populated areas to the east.

Location: New Jersey

GPS coordinates: 39.62100,-74.54300

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:01